Created 16/5/2023
Updated 12/15/2023
Bruxism, i.e., involuntary clenching and/or grinding of the teeth, is an oral pathology that, at some point in life, is estimated to affect up to 70% of the population. In general, this problem usually appears between 17 and 20 years of age and tends to disappear after the age of 40. But have you ever wondered what are the main causes of bruxism?
In this article, from our dental clinic in Barcelona, we explain what types of bruxism exist and what are the most common factors and causes that cause it.
Types of bruxism
Generally, bruxism tends to appear at night, during sleeping hours. However, it can also occur during the rest of the day. In this sense, we can differentiate between:
- Nocturnal bruxism, which appears in periods of between 17 and 20 minutes during the night.
- Daytime bruxism, which is usually related to stress and anxiety.
- Centric bruxism, which is related to the clenching of the teeth, especially affecting the premolars.
- Eccentric bruxism, which tends to cause tooth friction, thus causing tooth wear.
Most common causes of bruxism
The causes of bruxism are diverse and depend on various internal, external and psychological factors. In this way, we can determine that, among the most common are:
- Dental malocclusions, i.e., incorrect fit and meshing between the teeth of the upper and lower arches. A situation that also leads to tooth wear.
- Occlusal instability, in people suffering from crossbite.
- Periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and tissues that surround and support the teeth.
- Stress, anxiety and nervousness.
- Other factors, such as, for example, certain eating habits, acquired sleeping postures or respiratory disorders.
In many cases, to prevent enamel wear, tooth and molar fractures and also to relax the facial muscles, we may recommend the use of a night splint.
If, especially in the morning, you notice discomfort in your teeth and/or jaw, we can help you! You can contact us at 93 272 48 30 (Barcelona) / 971 315 374 (Ibiza) or leave us your details in the form on our website.
At IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza, we follow editorial principles that guarantee the authenticity of all the information we disseminate. If you are interested in learning more about how we ensure that our content is always up-to-date and accurately supported, we invite you to review our editorial commitment.
This article has been supervised by Dr. Ferran Novell Costa and Dra. Erjona Demiraj, specialists in Dental Health and Dental Aesthetics treatments. Responsible for the treatments provided at IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza and for the supervision and/or updating of the contents of this blog entry. (7/11/2023). The recommendations described are not generic and do not replace the diagnosis and evaluation of a professional in a dental office. If you want us to clarify any aspect or you want a personalized diagnosis and advice we recommend you to come to our dental clinics.
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